Two women who were arrested yesterday (Thursday) in Fermanagh on suspicion of benefit fraud have been charged.

The pair, aged 17 and 69 were charged with ‘Fraud by False Representation’ and ‘Going equipped’, the PSNI said today Friday.

Both will appear at Dungannon Magistrates Special court tomorrow, Saturday, April 3. 

The investigation centres on individuals resident in the Republic of Ireland using what authorities allegedly believe to be false identities to obtain benefits in Northern Ireland over a period of around six years.

Speaking on Thursday, Detective Inspector Winters said: “Those who claim benefits to which they are not entitled are taking money away from our communities and from the public services we all rely on.

"While this operation is ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further on the details.”